On Monday 29th September TfL launched its initial consultation on a possible extension of the Bakerloo line from Elephant & Castle to Hayes via New Cross Gate and Lewisham.

I have long supported these plans and I know that this extension would be extremely welcome. Although the Overground has helped at the stations it serves, the addition of the underground in South East London would greatly assist with reducing the overcrowding my constituents face on Southern and South Eastern trains.The current consultation focuses on determining the level of public support for extending the line and provides an opportunity for people to comment on potential routes for the extension.

So far, TfL has identified two options for alignments and stations between Elephant & Castle and Lewisham: one service Old Kent Road and the other vis Camberwell and Peckham. Beyond this, the extension could connect with the existing rail line to Hayes. Further options could involving extending the line to Beckenham Junction or Bromley town centre.